The highly sought-after Hughes has attracted the attention of some of the Premier League's big boys in recent months, and a deal to take Liverpool's Andre Wisdom to the Rams on loan was thought to be a make-weight.

But County's chief executive, Rush, has come out to strongly deny the rumours that Liverpool will be signing the 18-year-old in January.

"I think the Andre Wisdom deal was very much as a result of Liverpool's desire for him to come to Derby and further his football education," Rush said.

Wisdom's move to Derby was not to help smooth out a transfer for Hughes [GETTY]

“There has been no further movement in terms of Will. We are just looking forward to watching him continue to play for Derby County”

Sam Rush

"Andre was the top of Steve McClaren's list of people he wanted to bring in to strengthen the squad. So no, there is no connection with Will Hughes at all.

"There has been no further movement in terms of Will. From our point of view, we are just looking forward to watching him continue to play for Derby County."

While Hughes has been tipped to move from Pride Park at some point, Rush is adamant the Rams have not put a price tag on the youngster.